EP3467367A1 - Anti-tamper permanent quick connect coupling device - Google Patents
Anti-tamper permanent quick connect coupling device Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP3467367A1 EP3467367A1 EP18198650.6A EP18198650A EP3467367A1 EP 3467367 A1 EP3467367 A1 EP 3467367A1 EP 18198650 A EP18198650 A EP 18198650A EP 3467367 A1 EP3467367 A1 EP 3467367A1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- locking
- extending
- quick connector
- housing
- wall
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Granted
Links
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Images
Classifications
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L37/00—Couplings of the quick-acting type
- F16L37/08—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members
- F16L37/084—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members combined with automatic locking
- F16L37/091—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members combined with automatic locking by means of a ring provided with teeth or fingers
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L13/00—Non-disconnectible pipe-joints, e.g. soldered, adhesive or caulked joints
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L37/00—Couplings of the quick-acting type
- F16L37/08—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members
- F16L37/084—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members combined with automatic locking
- F16L37/098—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members combined with automatic locking by means of flexible hooks
- F16L37/0985—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members combined with automatic locking by means of flexible hooks the flexible hook extending radially inwardly from an outer part and engaging a bead, recess or the like on an inner part
- F16L37/0987—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members combined with automatic locking by means of flexible hooks the flexible hook extending radially inwardly from an outer part and engaging a bead, recess or the like on an inner part the flexible hook being progressively compressed by axial tensile loads acting on the coupling
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L2201/00—Special arrangements for pipe couplings
- F16L2201/10—Indicators for correct coupling
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L2201/00—Special arrangements for pipe couplings
- F16L2201/20—Safety or protective couplings
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L37/00—Couplings of the quick-acting type
- F16L37/08—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members
- F16L37/084—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members combined with automatic locking
- F16L37/098—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members combined with automatic locking by means of flexible hooks
- F16L37/0985—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members combined with automatic locking by means of flexible hooks the flexible hook extending radially inwardly from an outer part and engaging a bead, recess or the like on an inner part
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L37/00—Couplings of the quick-acting type
- F16L37/08—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members
- F16L37/10—Couplings of the quick-acting type in which the connection between abutting or axially overlapping ends is maintained by locking members using a rotary external sleeve or ring on one part
- F16L37/107—Bayonet-type couplings
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L43/00—Bends; Siphons
Definitions
- the present disclosure relates generally to a quick connector for establishing a union between conduits, and more particularly to a quick connector for permanently locking a tubular insertion member therein to prevent disassembly of the tubular insertion member therefrom.
- Quick connectors connect a tubular insertion member to a receiving member to convey mediums therethrough, such as in a variety of liquid and gas systems, to provide a connection between a pair of conduits for establishing a continuous flow path therebetween.
- quick connectors are used in various air/vapor management systems, such as evaporative emissions systems, fuel vapor, oil vapor, crankcase ventilation systems, and brake boost and engine vacuum systems.
- air/vapor management systems such as evaporative emissions systems, fuel vapor, oil vapor, crankcase ventilation systems, and brake boost and engine vacuum systems.
- quick connectors can also be used in fluid delivery systems such as, for example, liquid fuel and windshield washer applications.
- additional features such as outer wraps or other types of supplemental features, are disposed about connectors to inhibit ready access to the connectors in an effort to improve their resistance to tampering.
- supplemental features to inhibit access to connectors come at additional cost, both in assembly and in extra component cost.
- a quick connector constructed in accordance with the present disclosure and assembly therewith overcomes at least those the problems discussed above, and likely others, which will become readily apparent to one skilled in the art upon viewing the entirety of the disclosure herein.
- the mechanism includes providing at least one of the components with an integral locking member that forms a permanent connection between components of the quick connector to prevent separation of the components from one another, absent breaking one of the components.
- a quick connector constructed in accordance with the disclosure assures the "as fully assembled" components of the quick connector will not become detached from one another once assembled to one another.
- a quick connector and assembly therewith in accordance with the disclosure reduce the complexity of assembling the quick connector into a vehicle, reduce the cost associated with assembly and the total component cost, and prevent tampering of the system including the quick connector.
- a quick connector for permanently locked, non-disconnectable receipt of a tubular male insertion member, having a lock feature located between opposite ends, therein to facilitate establishing a tamper-resistant connection between conduits is provided.
- the quick connector includes a housing having a tubular housing wall with an inner surface and an outer surface extending along a central longitudinal axis between open opposite ends with at least one locking feature extending into the inner surface of the housing wall.
- the inner surface bounds a through bore and has a shoulder extending radially inwardly from at least a portion thereof.
- a retaining member has an annular retainer wall with inner and outer surfaces extending axially along the central longitudinal axis between open proximal and distal ends.
- each of the at least one locking features extending into the inner surface of the housing wall can be provided as a through opening sized for receipt of a corresponding one of the at least one locking member of the retaining member therein.
- the at least one locking finger can be provided as being cantilevered from the fixed end of the retaining member.
- the first receiving portion 42 of the housing 16 is shown having an additional locking feature, shown as being formed in axially spaced relation from the locking openings 60, and further shown has being formed at an end region of a generally L-shaped slot 62.
- the L-shaped slot 62 has a first portion 63 that extends axially into the free open end 58, and then a second portion 64 extends laterally or circumferentially to a locking surface 66.
- the locking surface 66 is shown, by way of example and without limitation, as extending slightly axially upwardly toward the free open end 58, thereby forming an axially recessed anti-rotation feature in the form of an axially extending lip 68.
- the housing 116 includes a tubular wall 122 having an enlarged diameter, cylindrical first receiving portion 142, a reduced diameter, cylindrical second portion 144, with an intermediate diameter cylindrical, third portion 146 extending between the first and second cylindrical portions 142, 144.
- An internal annular upper shoulder 148 FIGS. 7 and 8 ) separates the upper cylindrical first receiving portion 142 from the intermediate cylindrical third portion 146 and an internal annular lower shoulder 150 separates the lower second cylindrical portion 144 from the intermediate third cylindrical portion 146.
- the locking members 192 of the retaining member 118 are axially aligned with the channels 162 of the housing 116 and the retaining member 118 is disposed axially into the receiving portion 146 of the housing 116 along the longitudinal central axis A.
- the locking members 192 are received and guided axially within the first portions 163 of the channels 162, and upon reaching the radially inwardly extending second portions 164, the locking members 192 interfere slightly with the second portions 164 to cause resilient and elastic deformation of the housing wall 122 and/or retaining member wall 174, thereby allowing the locking members 192 to deflect over the second portions 164 for snapping receipt to an assembled state within the locking openings 160.
- the retaining member 118, with the locking members 192 disposed and fixed within the locking openings 160 is prevented from being removed from the housing 116.
- a generally frustoconical surface FS is shown transitioning the first outer surface 226' to the second outer surface 226" and a rounded or tapered nose 232 extends from the second outer surface 226" to the insertion end 228.
- Embodiment 10 The quick connector of Embodiment 1, wherein said at least one locking feature is a circumferentially extending groove extending radially outwardly into said inner surface of said housing wall.
- Embodiment 11 The quick connector of Embodiment 10, wherein said at least one locking member is a circumferentially extending rib extending radially outwardly from said outer surface of said retainer wall.
- Embodiment 12 The quick connector of Embodiment 11, wherein said rib extends about an entirety of the circumference of said outer surface of said retainer wall.
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Quick-Acting Or Multi-Walled Pipe Joints (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- The present disclosure relates generally to a quick connector for establishing a union between conduits, and more particularly to a quick connector for permanently locking a tubular insertion member therein to prevent disassembly of the tubular insertion member therefrom.
- This section provides background information related to the present disclosure which is not necessarily prior art.
- As is well known, a type of coupling, commonly referred to as a "quick connector," is used to quickly and simply connect tubes or conduits to one another. Quick connectors connect a tubular insertion member to a receiving member to convey mediums therethrough, such as in a variety of liquid and gas systems, to provide a connection between a pair of conduits for establishing a continuous flow path therebetween. For example, in automotive applications, quick connectors are used in various air/vapor management systems, such as evaporative emissions systems, fuel vapor, oil vapor, crankcase ventilation systems, and brake boost and engine vacuum systems. In addition to these gas management systems, quick connectors can also be used in fluid delivery systems such as, for example, liquid fuel and windshield washer applications. Some of the benefits of present quick connectors in automotive applications include ease of assembly, reduction in potential leak paths, enhanced ability for containment of hydrocarbon emissions, and ability to quickly disconnect the insertion member from the quick connector, such as during service.
- Despite the benefits of known quick connectors, a need still exists to provide a mechanism for making a reliable connection between a tubular insertion member and a quick connector without having to employ costly mechanisms to ensure a reliable connection has been established. Current quick connectors require costly electronic sensor mechanisms configured in communication with a vehicle central processing unit to indicate proper connections have been established and are being maintained. Although generally effective, the costs associated therewith can be problematic. Further yet, in some cases the ability to disconnect the insertion member from the quick connector can be problematic. For example, in some applications, such as emissions applications, by way of example and without limitation, tamper resistant connections are desired. In some cases, additional features, such as outer wraps or other types of supplemental features, are disposed about connectors to inhibit ready access to the connectors in an effort to improve their resistance to tampering. However, supplemental features to inhibit access to connectors come at additional cost, both in assembly and in extra component cost.
- A quick connector constructed in accordance with the present disclosure and assembly therewith overcomes at least those the problems discussed above, and likely others, which will become readily apparent to one skilled in the art upon viewing the entirety of the disclosure herein.
- This section provides a general summary of the disclosure and is not intended to represent a comprehensive summary of all of its features, advantages, aspects and/or objectives.
- It is an aspect of the present disclosure to provide a quick and reliable mechanism in which to ensure a reliable, permanent fluid/gas-tight seal has been established between a plurality of components of a quick connector used to form a fluid/gas-tight connection between conduits. The mechanism includes providing at least one of the components with an integral locking member that forms a permanent connection between components of the quick connector to prevent separation of the components from one another, absent breaking one of the components. Accordingly, a quick connector constructed in accordance with the disclosure assures the "as fully assembled" components of the quick connector will not become detached from one another once assembled to one another. Further, a quick connector and assembly therewith in accordance with the disclosure reduce the complexity of assembling the quick connector into a vehicle, reduce the cost associated with assembly and the total component cost, and prevent tampering of the system including the quick connector.
- A quick connector for permanently locked, non-disconnectable receipt of a tubular male insertion member, having a lock feature located between opposite ends, therein to facilitate establishing a tamper-resistant connection between conduits is provided. The quick connector includes a housing having a tubular housing wall with an inner surface and an outer surface extending along a central longitudinal axis between open opposite ends with at least one locking feature extending into the inner surface of the housing wall. The inner surface bounds a through bore and has a shoulder extending radially inwardly from at least a portion thereof. A retaining member has an annular retainer wall with inner and outer surfaces extending axially along the central longitudinal axis between open proximal and distal ends. The outer surface of the retaining member is sized for receipt in the through bore of the housing wall. The retainer wall has at least one locking member extending radially outwardly from the outer surface of the retainer wall for lock engagement with the at least one locking feature in the housing wall to prevent relative axial movement between the housing wall and the retaining member. The retainer wall has at least one locking finger extending radially inwardly from the inner surface of the retainer wall for locked engagement with the lock feature of the tubular male insertion member to prevent removal of the tubular male insertion member from the housing.
- In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, each of the at least one locking features extending into the inner surface of the housing wall can be provided as a through opening sized for receipt of a corresponding one of the at least one locking member of the retaining member therein.
- In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, the at least one locking feature extending into the inner surface of the housing wall can be provided to include a plurality of through openings spaced circumferentially from one another.
- In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, each of the at least one locking member can be provided as a protrusion extending radially outwardly from the annular retainer wall.
- In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, the inner surface of the annular retainer wall can be provided having at least one recessed channel extending axially from the proximal end toward the at least one through opening, with each of the at least one recessed channel being configured to guide a corresponding one of the at least one protrusion axially toward and into the corresponding through opening.
- In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, a ramped surface can be provided to extend radially inwardly from the at least one recessed channel toward the through opening associated therewith to facilitate snapping receipt of a corresponding one of the at least one protrusion into the associated through opening.
- In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, the at least one locking finger can be provided to extend from a fixed end adjacent the proximal end axially toward the distal end of the retaining member.
- In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, the at least one locking finger can be provided as being cantilevered from the fixed end of the retaining member.
- In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, the at least one locking finger can be provided to include a plurality of locking fingers spaced equidistantly from one another about a circumference of the annular retainer wall.
- In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, the at least one locking feature can be provided as a circumferentially extending groove extending radially outwardly into the inner surface of the housing wall.
- In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, the at least one locking member can be provided as a circumferentially extending rib extending radially outwardly from the outer surface of the retainer wall, with the rib being sized for fixed receipt in the groove in the inner surface of the housing wall.
- In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, the circumferentially extending rib can be provided to extend about an entirety of the circumference of the outer surface of the retainer wall.
- In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, a quick connector assembly is provided. The assembly includes a tubular male insertion member having opposite ends with a lock feature located between the opposite ends. The assembly further includes a housing having a tubular housing wall with an inner surface and an outer surface extending about a central longitudinal axis between open opposite ends with at least one locking feature extending into the inner surface of the housing wall. The inner surface of the housing bounds a through bore and has a shoulder extending radially inwardly from at least a portion thereof. The assembly further includes a retaining member having an annular retainer wall with inner and outer surfaces extending axially about the central longitudinal axis between open proximal and distal ends. The outer surface of the retaining member is sized for receipt in the through bore of the housing wall. The retainer wall has at least one locking member extending radially outwardly from the outer surface of the retainer wall for lock engagement with the at least one locking feature in the housing wall to prevent relative axial movement between the housing wall and the retaining member. The retainer wall further includes at least one locking finger extending radially inwardly from the inner surface of the retainer wall for locked engagement with the lock feature of the tubular male insertion member to prevent removal of the tubular male insertion member from the housing.
- In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, the tubular male insertion member of the assembly can be provided having a generally cylindrical outer surface and the lock feature can be provided to extend radially outwardly from the generally cylindrical outer surface.
- In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, the lock feature of tubular male insertion member of the assembly can be provided having an annular collar having a leading shoulder, a trailing shoulder and an outer periphery extending between the leading shoulder and the trailing shoulder.
- In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, the tubular male insertion member of the assembly can be provided having a generally cylindrical outer surface and the lock feature can be provided to extend radially into the generally cylindrical outer surface.
- In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, the lock feature can be provided as an annular recessed groove extending into an outer surface of the tubular male insertion member.
- Further areas of applicability of the present invention will become apparent from the description and illustrations provided herein. The description and specific examples in this summary are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.
- These and other aspects, features and advantages of the invention will become more readily appreciated when considered in connection with the following detailed description, appended claims and accompanying drawings, in which:
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FIG. 1A is an assembled isometric view of a quick connector constructed in accordance with one non-limiting aspect of the disclosure; -
FIG. 1B is another assembled isometric view of the quick connector ofFIG. 1A looking from an opposite side of the quick connector with conduits shown in phantom being couple to an insertion member of an assembly thereof; -
FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the quick connector assembly ofFIG. 1B ; -
FIG. 3 is an exploded cross-sectional view of the quick connector assembly ofFIG. 1B ; -
FIG. 4 is an assembled cross-sectional view of the components ofFIG. 3 ; -
FIG. 5 is an assembled isometric view of a quick connector constructed in accordance with another non-limiting aspect of the disclosure; -
FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the quick connector ofFIG. 5 with an insertion member forming an assembly therewith; -
FIG. 7 is an exploded partial cross-sectional view of the quick connector assembly ofFIG. 6 taken generally along the line 7-7 ofFIG. 6 with the insertion member shown in a non-cross-sectioned state; -
FIG. 8 is an assembled cross-sectional view of the components ofFIG. 7 with the insertion member shown in a non-cross-sectioned state; -
FIG. 9 is an assembled cross-sectional view of the quick connector ofFIG. 5 taken through a locking member of the connector; -
FIG. 10 is an isometric view of a housing of the quick connector ofFIG. 5 ; -
FIG. 11 is an assembled isometric view of a quick connector constructed in accordance with yet another non-limiting aspect of the disclosure; -
FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view of the quick connector ofFIG. 11 with an insertion member forming an assembly therewith; -
FIG. 13 is an exploded cross-sectional view of the quick connector assembly taken generally along the line 13-13 ofFIG. 12 ; and -
FIG. 14 is an assembled cross-sectional view of the components ofFIG. 13 . - Referring in general to all of the Figures, the present disclosure and teachings described herein are directed to quick connectors and assemblies therewith, of the type particularly well-suited for providing a fluid/gas tight connection (union) between conduits. While disclosed in accordance with one or more specific exemplary constructions, with particular reference to a first non-limiting embodiment in
FIGS. 1A-4 , an anti-tamper permanent quick connect coupling device, referred to hereafter simply asquick connector 10, andassembly 12 therewith of the present disclosure is illustrated, while it is to be recognized that a quick connector may be configured other than as expressly shown and described. The inventive concepts disclosed herein are generally directed to an improved mechanism for forming and ensuring a fixed and permanent (without breaking at least one of the components), reliable, fluid/gas-tight connection is made between a tubular male insertion port or member, referred to hereafter simply asinsertion member 14, and a tubular receiving member, also referred to ashousing 16, of theconnector 10 via an intermediate annular retainer, also referred to as retainingmember 18, of theconnector 10 to form the permanently lockedassembly 12. The improvedquick connector 10 andassembly 12 provide a reliable, fluid/gas-tight connection in such a manner as to do away with the need for costly supplement features and/or mechanisms to ensure and indicate the permanent, leak-proof connection is made and maintained. Theconnector 10 is economical in manufacture, in assembly and in use, and provides a quick, reliable way in which to ensure a permanent fluid/gas-tight connection is established between conduits and will be maintained between theassembly 12, including themale insertion member 14 and theconnector 10, with reassurance that any potential for inadvertent disconnection between theinsertion member 14 and theconnector 10, and tampering therewith, is prevented. - During assembly, the retaining
member 18 is disposed axially along a central longitudinal axis A of theassembly 12, which corresponds to a central longitudinal axis of theindividual components bore 24 bounded by aninner surface 20 of a generally cylindrical, generallytubular wall 22 of thehousing 16. Upon disposing the retainingmember 18 into thebore 24 of thehousing 16, the retainingmember 18 becomes automatically and permanently fixed therein as a result of interlocking features, discussed in more detail below. Then, thetubular insertion member 14 can be inserted generally along the longitudinal axis A into thebore 24 of thehousing 16, whereupon theinsertion member 14 is brought to a fully assembled state to form theassembly 12, and a permanent fluid/gas-tight seal is perfected between theinsertion member 14 and thehousing 16 without need for supplemental fixing features and devices. Upon full assembly of theinsertion member 14 into thehousing 16, the locking features of theinsertion member 14 and retainingmember 18 operatively couple and cooperate with one another, whether through direct or indirect coupling with one another, to permanently lock theinsertion member 14 in sealed engagement with thehousing 16. Upon being locked together, assurance is provided that the fluid/gas-tight connection therebetween will be maintained between theinsertion member 14 and thehousing 16 over the course of the useful life of theassembly 12, without having to employ costly sensor mechanisms in communication with a vehicle control unit, while at the same time doing away with the need to include supplemental fixing members, such as shrink wraps, tape, adhesives and the like, thereby doing away with the need for further fixing members, assembly processes, and thereby avoiding costs associated therewith. Accordingly, theconnector 10 andassembly 12 therewith are reliable and cost efficient in assembly and in use. - In accordance with one non-limiting embodiment, the
insertion member 14 includes atubular shaft portion 26 that extends between opposite ends, with one end being aninsertion end 28 and the opposite end being anattachment end 30, with theattachment end 30 being configured for operable, whether direct or indirect, attachment to aconduit 31. Theinsertion end 28 is shown as having a radiused or otherwise chamfered lead-in surface in the form of a generally roundednose 32 that generally tapers or reduces in diameter to theinsertion end 28. Theinsertion member 14 further includes a lock feature in the form of a collar, shown as being a circumferentially continuousannular collar 34, by way of example and without limitation, between the opposite ends 28, 30. Theannular collar 34 extends radially outwardly from a generally cylindrical outer surface (generally is intended herein to mean it can be truly circular as viewed in cross-section or non-circular as viewed in cross-section) of theshaft portion 26 and is generally rectilinear as viewed in axial cross-section. Theannular collar 34 has a radially outwardly extending, annular leadingshoulder 36 and a radially outwardly extending, annular trailingshoulder 38 spaced from one another by a generally cylindrical outer periphery 40 (FIG. 1 ), wherein theshoulders insertion member 14, as described, is a male conduit member and may be constructed from any desired material known in the art, including plastics, metals, or otherwise, wherein theinsertion member 14, in one exemplary embodiment, is a resinous tube. - The
housing 16 includes thetubular wall 22, shown as being generally L-shaped, by way of example and without limitation, having an enlarged diameter, cylindrical first receivingportion 42, a reduced diameter, cylindricalsecond portion 44, with a stepped intermediate diameter cylindrical,third portion 46 extending between the first and secondcylindrical portions FIGS. 3 and4 ) separates the upper cylindrical first receivingportion 42 from the intermediate cylindricalthird portion 46 and an internal annularlower shoulder 50 separates the lower secondcylindrical portion 44 from the intermediate thirdcylindrical portion 46. As such, the relative diameters of the first, second andthird portions - The
tubular wall 22 forms an end nipple portion, also referred to ascoupling portion 52, shown as having a plurality of consecutiveannular ridges 54 along anouter surface 53 for operable attachment to the conduit 31 (FIG. 1B ) and an O-ring 56 captured between a pair of theridges 54 to facilitate forming a fluid-tight seal with theconduit 31. The enlargeddiameter receiving portion 42 extends to anopen end 58, with the generallycylindrical wall 22 thereof having at least one, and shown as a plurality (three, by way of example and without limitation) of circumferentially spaced, locking features, shown in a non-limiting embodiments as lockingopenings 60 extending therethrough. The lockingopenings 60 are shown as being equidistantly spaced from one another, though it is anticipated that other circumferential spatial relationships are possible. - The first receiving
portion 42 of thehousing 16 is shown having an additional locking feature, shown as being formed in axially spaced relation from the lockingopenings 60, and further shown has being formed at an end region of a generally L-shaped slot 62. The L-shaped slot 62 has a first portion 63 that extends axially into the freeopen end 58, and then asecond portion 64 extends laterally or circumferentially to a lockingsurface 66. The lockingsurface 66 is shown, by way of example and without limitation, as extending slightly axially upwardly toward the freeopen end 58, thereby forming an axially recessed anti-rotation feature in the form of anaxially extending lip 68. - The first receiving
portion 42 of thewall 22 is further shown as having anotch 70 recessed into the freeopen end 58. Thenotch 70 is shown as being generally rectilinear and extending axially into the freeopen end 58 of the first receivingportion 42 to the same or approximately the same axial depth as the L-shaped slot 62, with the depth being between the lockingopenings 60 and the lockingsurface 66. Thenotch 70 is shown as being formed generally diametrically opposite the L-shaped slot 62, though it is to be recognized other circumferential spacial relationships are contemplated herein. A section orsector 67 of thewall 22 extending between the L-shaped slot 62 and thenotch 70 is shown as being expanded radially outwardly from the axis A relative to the remaining portion of the receivingportion 42, such that an inner surface of thesector 67 is radially enlarged relative an inner surface of the remaining portion of the receivingportion 42. With thesector 67 forming a slightly enlarged region of the receivingportion 42, a directional installation feature is provided, thereby indicating to an installer during assembly the proper orientation of the retainingmember 18 relative to thehousing 16, as discussed further below. - The
bore 24 of theintermediate portion 46 of thetubular wall 22 is sized diametrically to receive at least one elastomeric annular seal member, shown as an elastomeric O-ring 71 in a close fit, such as a line-to-line, slightly loose, or slight interferences fit. The O-ring 71 has an inner diameter sized to establish a gas/fluid tight seal against thetubular shaft portion 26 of theinsertion member 14 upon assembly. Anannular spacer sleeve 72 is shown as being seated against or adjacent thelower shoulder 50, with the O-ring 71 being seated against thespacer ring 72, such that thespacer sleeve 72 is between thelower shoulder 50 and the O-ring 71. It should be recognized theseal member 71 could be configured other than as described and shown, as long a gas/fluid-tight seal is formed thereby against thetubular shaft portion 26 of theinsertion member 14 upon assembly and while in use. - The retaining
member 16 includes a generally annular, tubular retainer wall, and shown as a generallycylindrical wall 74, having aninner surface 76 and anouter surface 78. Theinner surface 76 of thewall 74 defines a bore, also referred to as throughopening 80. The throughopening 80 has a first portion, also referred to as distal orlower portion 82, and a second portion, also referred to as proximal orupper portion 84, with an annular counterbore, also referred to as ledge orshoulder 86, extending therebetween. Thelower portion 82 is sized for close fitting receipt of thetubular shaft portion 26 of theinsertion member 14 therein, though not thecollar 34, while theupper portion 84 is sized for receipt of thecollar 34 therein. - The inner and
outer surfaces member 18 extend about the central longitudinal axis A between opposite open proximal and distal ends 88, 90. Theretainer wall 74 has at least one lockingmember 92, preferably conforming in number with the lockingopenings 60 in thehousing 16, and further includes anadditional locking member 92 for receipt against the lockingsurface 66. The lockingmembers 92 are arranged for alignment with and configured for receipt within the lockingopenings 60 in thehousing 16 and against the lockingsurface 66 upon completing assembly of the retainingmember 18 into thehousing 16. The lockingmembers 92 extend radially outwardly from theouter surface 78 sufficiently for locked receipt within the lockingopenings 60 and for locked abutment against the lockingsurface 66. The lockingmembers 92, shown as radially outwardly extending, generally pyramid-shaped or frustoconical-shaped protrusions, by way of example and without limitation, can be formed as a monolithic piece of material with theretainer member 18, and can be formed having other shapes than shown. - The
retainer wall 74 further includes at least one, and shown as a plurality of lockingfingers 94 extending radially inwardly from theinner surface 76, wherein the lockingfingers 94 are configured for locked engagement with thecollar 34 of theinsertion member 14. The lockingfingers 94 are shown as being spaced equidistantly from one another about the circumference of thewall 74, with three, by way of example and without limitation, being shown. The lockingfingers 94 are shown as extending from afixed end 95 adjacent theproximal end 88 along an axially and radially inwardly extending inclination toward thedistal end 90 to free ends 96. Accordingly, the lockingfingers 94 converge toward one another and toward the central longitudinal axis A. The lockingfingers 94 are cantilevered from their fixed ends 95, and thus, have oppositefree sides 98 that extend from the fixed ends 95 to the free ends 96. As such, the lockingfingers 94 are substantially detached from thewall 74, other than at their fixed ends 95, and are surrounded byrespective openings 100 in thewall 74. The lockingfingers 94 extend radially inwardly to an extent that the free ends 96 confront thecollar 34 along an axial direction to prevent removal of theinsertion member 14 upon assembly of theinsertion members 14 through the retainingmember 18 and into thehousing 16, as discussed further below. The lockingfingers 94 can further be formed to extend radially inwardly sufficiently to abut thetubular shaft portion 26 of theinsertion member 14, if desired. - The
retainer wall 74 further includes aprotuberance 102 extending radially outwardly from theouter surface 78 adjacent theproximal end 88. Theprotuberance 102 is sized for receipt within the radial region spanned by thehousing sector 67, and is configured having the same or about the same peripheral shape as thesector 67. As such, with theprotuberance 102 extending radially outwardly from the remainder of theouter surface 78, the protuberance and thesector 67 cooperate to provide a key-like fit with one another, such that theprotuberance 102 must be axially aligned with thesector 67 during assembly, otherwise, theprotuberance 102 will not fit within theopen end 58 of thehousing receiving portion 42. Accordingly, thesector 67 andprotuberance 102 cooperate with one another to ensure the locking features, including the lockingmembers 92, are properly aligned axially for receipt within the corresponding lockingopenings 60 in thewall 22 of thehousing 16 during insertion of the retainingmember 18 into thehousing 16, thereby simplifying assembly and ensuring the retainingmember 18 is properly fixed in locked engagement with thehousing 16. - In assembly, with the
spacer sleeve 72 disposed against or adjacent thelower shoulder 50 and the O-ring 71 disposed against thespacer sleeve 72, theprotuberance 102 of the retainingmember 18 is axially aligned with thesector 67 of thehousing 16 and the retainingmember 18 is disposed axially into the receivingportion 46 of thehousing 16 along the longitudinal central axis A. Upon reaching the assembled state, the lockingmembers 92 adjacent thedistal end 90 snap into therespective locking openings 60 and the lockingmember 92 adjacent theproximal end 88 snaps into position against the lockingsurface 66. It is to be recognized that the interference between the lockingmembers 92 and theinner surface 20 of thehousing 16 causes thewall 74 of the retainingmember 18 to flex elastically in a radially inward direction, thereby allowing the lockingmembers 92 to temporarily deflect radially inwardly until they register with therespective locking opening 60 and L-shaped slot 62, whereupon thewall 74 and the lockingmembers 92 automatically spring resiliently outwardly to an unbiased state. As such, the retainingmember 18, with the lockingmembers 92 disposed and fixed within the lockingopenings 60 and against the lockingsurface 66, is prevented from being removed from thehousing 16. - Then, with the retaining
member 18 fixed in the assembled state within thehousing 16, theinsertion member 14 is disposed axially along the axis A, through the through opening 80 of the retainingmember 18, into thehousing 16. Theinsertion end 28 of theinsertion member 14 is inserted through the O-ring 71 and into thesecond portion 22 of thehousing 16, wherein the O-ring 71 is radially compressed between thehousing 16 and thetubular shaft portion 26 of theinsertion member 28 to form a gas/fluid-tight seal therebetween. Additionally, theouter periphery 40 of thecollar 34 gradually depresses the lockingfingers 94 to bias the lockingfingers 94 resiliently and radially outwardly. Upon thecollar 34 being moved axially beyond the free ends 96 of the lockingfingers 94, the lockingfingers 94 automatically snap resiliently and preferably audibly radially inwardly, whereupon the free ends 96 are brought into position to confront the trailingshoulder 38 of thecollar 34 against return axial movement outwardly from the retainingmember 18, while the leadingshoulder 36 of thecollar 34 is brought into abutment or close proximity with theshoulder 86 of the retainingmember 18. Accordingly, thecollar 34 is permanently and substantially captured against axial movement between theshoulder 86 and the lockingfingers 94. Of further importance is the close fit of thetubular shaft portion 26 against theinner surface 76 of the retaining memberlower portion 82, thereby preventing the radially inward deflection of the lockingmembers 92, and thus, assuring the lockingmembers 92 remain fixed in locked receipt within the lockingopenings 60. - If any axially applied force is applied between the
insertion member 14 and thehousing 16, tending to bias theinsertion member 14 axially outwardly from thehousing 16, the free ends 96 of the radially inwardly extending lockingfingers 94 confront and abut the trailingshoulder 38, whereupon the pressure applied against the free ends 96 and along the axially extending inclined length of thefingers 94 tends to bias the lockingfingers 94 further radially inwardly, due to their being inclined radially inwardly, thereby further locking theinsertion member 14 against removal. Accordingly, reassurance is provided that the locked connection is maintained between theinsertion member 14 and thehousing 16, even under axially applied tensile forces tending to bias theinsertion member 14 axially outwardly from thehousing 16, and as such, upon completing theassembly 12 as discussed and shown, no additional assurances, such as sensors, supplemental retainer mechanisms and the like, are needed to ensure the connection is established and permanently maintained. - In
FIGS. 5-10 , anotherquick connector 110 or components thereof are illustrated in accordance with another non-limiting embodiment of the disclosure, wherein the same reference numerals, offset by a factor of 100, are used to identify like parts and features. Thequick connector 110 provides a reliable, fluid/gas-tight connection between aninsertion member 114 and ahousing 116 via anintermediate retaining member 118 and a resilient annular seal, such as an O-ring 171, similarly as discussed above. Accordingly, the improvedquick connector 110 does away with the need for costly supplemental features and/or mechanisms to ensure and indicate the permanent, leak-proof connection is made and maintained. Theconnector 110 is economical in manufacture, in assembly and in use, and provides a quick, reliable way in which to ensure a permanent fluid/gas-tight connection is established between conduits and will be maintained between themale insertion member 114 and thehousing 116, with reassurance that any potential for inadvertent disconnection therebetween, and tampering therewith, is prevented. - The
tubular insertion member 114 is the same or substantially the same as discussed above for theinsertion member 14, including atubular shaft portion 126 and anannular collar 134 intermediate opposite insertion and attachment ends 128, 130. Theannular collar 134 includes leading and trailingshoulders outer periphery 140 as discussed above for thecollar 34. Accordingly, further discussion of theinsertion member 114 is believed unnecessary, as one possessing ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate and understand the similarities withinsertion member 14. - The
housing 116 includes atubular wall 122 having an enlarged diameter, cylindrical first receivingportion 142, a reduced diameter, cylindricalsecond portion 144, with an intermediate diameter cylindrical,third portion 146 extending between the first and secondcylindrical portions FIGS. 7 and8 ) separates the upper cylindrical first receivingportion 142 from the intermediate cylindricalthird portion 146 and an internal annularlower shoulder 150 separates the lower secondcylindrical portion 144 from the intermediate thirdcylindrical portion 146. - The
tubular wall 122 has acoupling portion 152 including a plurality of axially spacedannular ridges 154 for operable attachment to a conduit 131. The enlargeddiameter receiving portion 142 extends to anopen end 158, with the generallycylindrical wall 122 thereof having at least one, and shown as a pair, by way of example and without limitation, of circumferentially spaced, locking features, shown in a non-limiting embodiment as lockingopenings 160 extending therethrough. The lockingopenings 160 are shown as being spaced axially from the freeopen end 158 and being circumferentially spaced from one another in diametrically opposed relation with one another, though it is anticipated that other circumferential spatial relationships are possible. - The
first receiving portion 142 of thehousing 116 is shown having an additional feature to facilitate guided receipt of a locking member of the retainingmember 118 therein, shown as being recessed slots, also referred to aschannels 162, extending axially from the freeopen end 158 to or adjacent to the lockingopenings 160. Thechannels 162 are shown as each having afirst portion 163 that extends radially outwardly, in recessed fashion, into an inner surface of thewall 122, and asecond portion 164 forming a radially inwardly extending ramped locking surface 166 immediately adjacent therespective locking opening 160. The ramped surfaces 166 extend from the corresponding recessedchannel 162 to the throughopenings 160 to facilitate snapping receipt of the respective locking members into the throughopenings 160. - The
bore 124 of theintermediate portion 146 of thetubular wall 122 is sized diametrically to receive at least one elastomeric annular seal member, shown as the elastomeric O-ring 171 in a close fit, such as a line-to-line, slightly loose, or slight interferences fit. The O-ring 171 is sized as discussed above to establish a gas/fluid tight seal against thetubular shaft portion 126 of theinsertion member 114 upon assembly. Thebore 124 is further shown having a plurality of guide features 73, shown as elongate, axially extending ribs, to facilitate maintaining the retainingmember 118 in its proper concentric position within thehousing 116 upon be disposed therein. The guide features 73 can be provided to have a line-to-line or slightly loose fit with theouter surface 178 of the retainingmember 118. - The retaining
member 118 includes a generally annular, tubular retainer wall, and shown as a generallycylindrical wall 174, having aninner surface 176 and anouter surface 178. Theinner surface 176 of thewall 174 defines a bore, also referred to as through opening 180. The through opening 180 has a first portion, also referred to as distal orlower portion 182, and a second portion, also referred to as proximal orupper portion 184, with an annular counterbore, also referred to as ledge orshoulder 186, extending radially therebetween. Thelower portion 182 is sized for close fitting receipt of thetubular shaft portion 126 of theinsertion member 114 therein, though not thecollar 134, while theupper portion 184 is sized for receipt of thecollar 34 therein. - The inner and
outer surfaces member 118 extend axially about the central longitudinal axis A between opposite open proximal anddistal ends retainer wall 174 has at least one lockingmember 192, preferably conforming in number with the lockingopenings 160 in thehousing 116. The lockingmembers 192 are arranged for alignment with and for receipt within thechannels 162 and are and further configured for snapping receipt within the lockingopenings 160 in thehousing 116. The lockingmembers 192 extend radially outwardly from theouter surface 178 sufficiently for snapping, locked receipt within the lockingopenings 160. The lockingmembers 192, shown as radially outwardly extending, generally rectilinear-shaped protrusions, by way of example and without limitation, can be formed as a monolithic piece of material with theretainer member 118, and can be formed having other shapes than shown. - The
retainer wall 174 further includes at least one, and shown as a plurality of lockingfingers 194 extending radially inwardly from theinner surface 176, wherein the lockingfingers 194 are configured for locked engagement against thecollar 134 of theinsertion member 114. The lockingfingers 194 are shown as being spaced equidistantly from one another about the circumference of thewall 174, with two, by way of example and without limitation, being shown in diametrically opposed relation with one another. The lockingfingers 194 are shown as extending along an arcuate path from afixed end 195 adjacent theproximal end 188 along an axially and radially inwardly extending direction toward thedistal end 190 to free ends 196. Accordingly, the lockingfingers 194 converge toward one another and toward the central longitudinal axis A. The lockingfingers 194 are cantilevered from their fixed ends 195, and thus, have oppositefree sides 198 that extend from the fixed ends 195 to the free ends 196. As such, the lockingfingers 194 are substantially detached from thewall 174, other than at their fixed ends 195, and are surrounded byrespective openings 1100 in thewall 174. The lockingfingers 194 extend radially inwardly to an extent that the free ends 196 confront thecollar 134 along an axial direction to prevent removal of theinsertion member 114 upon assembly of theinsertion members 114 through the retainingmember 118 and into thehousing 116, as discussed further below. The lockingfingers 194 can further be formed to extend radially inwardly sufficiently to abut thetubular shaft portion 126 of theinsertion member 114, if desired. - In assembly, with the O-
ring 171 disposed against or adjacent thelower shoulder 150, the lockingmembers 192 of the retainingmember 118 are axially aligned with thechannels 162 of thehousing 116 and the retainingmember 118 is disposed axially into the receivingportion 146 of thehousing 116 along the longitudinal central axis A. The lockingmembers 192 are received and guided axially within thefirst portions 163 of thechannels 162, and upon reaching the radially inwardly extendingsecond portions 164, the lockingmembers 192 interfere slightly with thesecond portions 164 to cause resilient and elastic deformation of thehousing wall 122 and/or retainingmember wall 174, thereby allowing the lockingmembers 192 to deflect over thesecond portions 164 for snapping receipt to an assembled state within the lockingopenings 160. As such, the retainingmember 118, with the lockingmembers 192 disposed and fixed within the lockingopenings 160, is prevented from being removed from thehousing 116. - Then, with the retaining
member 118 fixed in the assembled state within thehousing 116, theinsertion member 114 is disposed axially along the axis A, through the retainingmember 118, into thehousing 116. Theinsertion end 128 of theinsertion member 114 is inserted through the O-ring 171 and into thesecond portion 122 of thehousing 116, wherein the O-ring 171 is radially compressed between thehousing 116 and thetubular shaft portion 126 of theinsertion member 128 to form a gas/fluid-tight seal therebetween. Additionally, the leadingshoulder 136 and theouter periphery 140 of thecollar 134 deflect the lockingfingers 194 to resiliently bias the lockingfingers 194 radially outwardly. Then, upon thecollar 134 being moved axially beyond the free ends 196 of the lockingfingers 194, the lockingfingers 194 automatically snap resiliently radially inwardly, whereupon the free ends 196 are brought into position to confront the trailingshoulder 138 of thecollar 134 against return axial movement outwardly from the retainingmember 118, while the leadingshoulder 136 of thecollar 134 is brought into abutment or close proximity with theshoulder 186 of the retainingmember 118. Accordingly, thecollar 134 is permanently captured between theshoulder 186 and the lockingfingers 194. Further, the close fit of thetubular shaft portion 126 against theinner surface 176 of the retaining memberlower portion 182 prevents the inward deflection of the lockingmembers 192, thereby assuring the lockingmembers 192 remain fixed in locked receipt within the lockingopenings 160 and against unwanted removal therefrom. - If any axially applied force is applied between the
insertion member 114 and thehousing 116, tending to bias theinsertion member 114 axially outwardly from thehousing 116, the free ends 196 of the radially inwardly extending lockingfingers 194 confront and abut the trailingshoulder 138. The pressure applied against the free ends 196 and along the axially extending length of thefingers 194 tends to bias the lockingfingers 194 further radially inwardly, which is promoted by the radially inwardly arced shape of the lockingfingers 194, which provides the lockingfingers 194 with a convex surface facing radially inwardly, acting to further bend thefingers 194 radially inwardly and lock theinsertion member 114 against removal from thehousing 116. Accordingly, reassurance is provided that the locked connection is maintained between theinsertion member 114 and thehousing 116, even under axially applied forces tending to bias theinsertion member 114 axially outwardly from thehousing 116. As such, no additional assurances, such as sensors, secondary fixing members and the like, are needed to ensure the connection is made and maintained. - In
FIGS. 11-14 , anotherquick connector 210 andassembly 212 therewith or components thereof are illustrated in accordance with another non-limiting embodiment of the disclosure, wherein the same reference numerals, offset by a factor of 200, are used to identify like parts and features. Thequick connector 210 provides a reliable, fluid/gas-tight connection between aninsertion member 214 of theassembly 212 and ahousing 216 via anintermediate retaining member 218 and a resilient annular seal, such as an O-ring 271, similarly as discussed above. Accordingly, the improvedquick connector 210 does away with the need for costly supplemental features and/or mechanisms to ensure and indicate the permanent, leak-proof connection is made and maintained. Theconnector 210 is economical in manufacture, in assembly and in use, and provides a quick, reliable way in which to ensure a permanent fluid/gas-tight connection is established between components of theassembly 212 and conduits connected thereto. The connection is maintained between themale insertion member 214 and thehousing 216, with reassurance that any potential for inadvertent disconnection therebetween and tampering therewith is prevented. - The
tubular insertion member 214 has atubular shaft portion 226 extending between adistal insertion end 228 and aproximal attachment end 230. An annular, recessed groove, also referred to as collar 234, extends radially into thetubular shaft portion 226, with the collar 234 having respective leading and trailingshoulders shoulders shoulders tubular shaft portion 226 is shown (FIG. 14 ) as having a generally cylindrical first outer 226' surface having a first diameter D1 extending from theattachment end 230 toward theinsertion end 228, wherein the collar 234 is formed in the first outer surface 226', and having a generally cylindrical secondouter surface 226" having a second diameter D2 extending generally from the collar 234 to theinsertion end 228, wherein the second diameter D2 is less than the first diameter D1. A generally frustoconical surface FS is shown transitioning the first outer surface 226' to the secondouter surface 226" and a rounded ortapered nose 232 extends from the secondouter surface 226" to theinsertion end 228. - The
housing 216 includes atubular wall 222 having an enlarged diameter, cylindrical first receivingportion 242, a reduced diameter, cylindricalsecond portion 244, with an intermediate diameter cylindrical,third portion 246 extending between the first and secondcylindrical portions first receiving portion 242 is further shown as having a slightly reduced diameter cylindrical portion 242' extending to thethird portion 246, wherein a frustoconical tapered portion FS' transitions theportions 242, 242' with one another. An internal annular upper shoulder 248 (FIGS. 13 and14 ) separates the upper cylindrical first receivingportion 242 from the intermediate cylindricalthird portion 246, wherein theupper shoulder 248 extends from the reduced diameter portion 242' to the intermediatethird portion 246. An internal annularlower shoulder 250 separates the lower secondcylindrical portion 244 from the intermediate thirdcylindrical portion 246. - The
tubular wall 222 has acoupling portion 252. Thecoupling portion 252 includesannular ridges 254 and anannular seal member 256, and is the same or substantially the same as discussed above for thecoupling portion 52, and thus, further discussion is believed unnecessary. The enlargeddiameter receiving portion 242 extends to an open end 258, with the slightly reduced diameter portion 242' having a locking feature, shown in a non-limiting embodiment as a circumferentially extending lockinggroove 260 extending radially outwardly into aninner surface 220 thereof. The lockinggroove 260 is shown as extending about the entire periphery of theinner surface 220, thereby forming a complete annular ring, by way of example and without limitation. The lockinggroove 260 is spaced axially from theupper shoulder 248 sufficiently to accommodate the O-ring 271 between thegroove 260 and theshoulder 248. - The retaining
member 218 includes a generally annular, tubular retainer wall, and shown as a generallycylindrical wall 274, having aninner surface 276 and anouter surface 278. Theinner surface 276 of thewall 274 defines a bore, also referred to as throughopening 280. The throughopening 280 has a first portion, also referred to as distal orlower portion 282, and a second portion, also referred to as proximal orupper portion 284, with an annular frustoconical surface FS" extending therebetween. Thelower portion 282 is sized for close fitting receipt of the secondouter surface 226" of theinsertion member 214 therein, but not the collar 234, while theupper portion 284 is sized of close fitting receipt of the first outer surface 226' of theinsertion member 214 and the collar 234 therein. - The inner and
outer surfaces member 218 extend axially about the central longitudinal axis A between opposite open proximal anddistal ends retainer wall 274 has a lockingmember 292 configured for locking engagement with theannular locking feature 260 in thehousing 216. The lockingmember 292 is shown, by way of example and without limitation, as circumferentially extending locking rib extending radially outwardly from thedistal end 290, and is further shown in a non-limiting embodiment as a circumferentially continuous annular rib. The lockingmember 292 is configured for snapping receipt within the lockinggroove 260 in thehousing 216. Accordingly, the lockingmember 292 extends radially outwardly from theouter surface 278 sufficiently for snapping, locked receipt within the lockinggroove 260, and thus, it is to be understood theannular locking rib 292 has a minimum outer diameter that is greater than a maximum diameter of the lockinggroove 260. - The
retainer wall 274 further includes at least one, and shown as a plurality of lockingfingers 294 extending radially inwardly from theinner surface 276, wherein the lockingfingers 294 are configured for locked engagement within the collar 234 of theinsertion member 214. The lockingfingers 294 are shown as being spaced equidistantly from one another about the circumference of thewall 274, with three, by way of example and without limitation, being shown in circumferentially spaced relation with one another. The lockingfingers 294 are shown as extending along a radially inwardly inclined path from afixed end 295 adjacent theproximal end 288 along an axially and radially inwardly extending direction toward thedistal end 290 to free ends 296. Accordingly, the lockingfingers 294 converge toward one another and toward the central longitudinal axis A. The lockingfingers 294 are cantilevered from their fixed ends 295, and thus, have oppositefree sides 298 that extend from the fixed ends 295 to the free ends 296. As such, the lockingfingers 294 are substantially detached from thewall 274, other than at their fixed ends 295, and are surrounded byrespective openings 2100 in thewall 274. The lockingfingers 294 extend radially inwardly to an extent that the free ends 296 confront the collar 234 along an axial direction to prevent removal of theinsertion member 214 upon assembly of theinsertion member 214 through the retainingmember 218 and into thehousing 216, as discussed further below. - In assembly, with the O-
ring 271 disposed against or adjacent theupper shoulder 248, the lockingmember 292 of the retainingmember 218 is disposed axially into the receivingportion 246 of thehousing 216 along the longitudinal central axis A. The lockingmember 292 is biased resiliently and elastically radially inwardly along the frustoconical section FS' and then forcibly slid into radially outwardly snapping receipt within the lockinggroove 260. As such, the retainingmember 218, with the lockingmember 292 disposed and fixed within the lockinggroove 260, is prevented from being removed from thehousing 216. - Then, with the retaining
member 218 fixed in the assembled state within thehousing 216, theinsertion member 214 is disposed axially along the axis A, through the retainingmember 218, into thehousing 216. Theinsertion end 228 of theinsertion member 214 is inserted through the O-ring 271, wherein therounded nose 232 facilitates sliding therethrough, and into the intermediatethird portion 246 of thehousing 216, wherein the O-ring 271 is radially compressed between thehousing 216 and thetubular shaft portion 226" of theinsertion member 228 to form a gas/fluid-tight seal therebetween. Additionally, the frustoconical surface FS of the collar 234 deflects the lockingfingers 294 to resiliently bias the lockingfingers 294 radially outwardly. Then, upon the collar 234 being moved into radial alignment with the free ends 296 of the lockingfingers 294, the lockingfingers 294 automatically snap resiliently radially inwardly, whereupon the free ends 296 are brought into position to confront the leadingshoulder 236 of the collar 234 against return axial movement outwardly from the retainingmember 218. Accordingly, the leadingshoulder 236 of the collar 234 is permanently captured against axial separation from the retainingmember 218 by the lockingfingers 294. Further, the close fit of thetubular shaft portion 226 against theinner surface 276 of the retaining memberlower portion 282 prevents the inward deflection of the lockingmember 292, thereby assuring the lockingmember 292 remains fixed in locked receipt within the lockinggroove 260. - If any axially applied force is applied between the
insertion member 214 and thehousing 216, tending to bias theinsertion member 214 axially outwardly from thehousing 216, the free ends 296 of the radially inwardly extending lockingfingers 294 confront and abut the leadingshoulder 236, wherein the pressure applied against the free ends 296 and along the axially extending length of thefingers 294 tends to bias the lockingfingers 294 further radially inwardly, which is promoted by the radially inward inclination of the lockingfingers 294, further locking theinsertion member 214 against removal. Accordingly, reassurance is provided that the locked connection is maintained between theinsertion member 214 and thehousing 216, absent the axially applied force being strong enough to break a component or components of theassembly 212, and as such, no additional assurances, such as sensors, secondary fixing members and the like, are needed to ensure the connection is made and maintained. - The foregoing description of the embodiments has been provided for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure or claims. Individual elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment, but, where applicable, are interchangeable and can be used in a selected embodiment, even if not specifically shown or described. The same may also be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure and claims, wherein the claims ultimately define the scope of the invention.
- Particularly, the present disclosure also pertains to the following embodiments:
-
Embodiment 1. A quick connector for permanently locked, non-disconnectable receipt of a tubular male insertion member, having a lock feature located between opposite ends, therein to facilitate establishing a tamper-resistant connection between conduits, comprising: a housing having a tubular housing wall with an inner surface and an outer surface extending along a central longitudinal axis between open opposite ends with at least one locking feature extending into said inner surface of said housing wall, said inner surface bounding a through bore and having a shoulder extending radially inwardly from at least a portion thereof; and a retaining member having an annular retainer wall with inner and outer surfaces extending axially along said central longitudinal axis between open proximal and distal ends, said outer surface of said retaining member being sized for receipt in said through bore of said housing wall, said retainer wall having at least one locking member extending radially outwardly from said outer surface of said retainer wall for lock engagement with said at least one locking feature in said housing wall to prevent relative axial movement between said housing wall and said retaining member, said retainer wall having at least one locking finger extending radially inwardly from said inner surface of said retainer wall for locked engagement with the lock feature of the tubular male insertion member to prevent removal of said tubular male insertion member from said housing. - Embodiment 2. The quick connector of
Embodiment 1, wherein said at least one locking feature extending into said inner surface of said housing wall is a through opening. - Embodiment 3. The quick connector of Embodiment 2, wherein said at least one locking feature extending into said inner surface of said housing wall includes a plurality of through openings.
- Embodiment 4. The quick connector of Embodiment 2, wherein said at least one locking member is provided as a protrusion extending radially outwardly from said annular retainer wall.
- Embodiment 5. The quick connector of Embodiment 4, wherein said inner surface of said annular retainer wall has a recessed channel extending axially from said proximal end toward said through opening, said recessed channel being configured to guide said protrusion into said through opening.
- Embodiment 6. The quick connector of Embodiment 5, further including a ramped surface extending radially inwardly from said recessed channel toward said through opening.
- Embodiment 7. The quick connector of
Embodiment 1, wherein said at least one locking finger extends from a fixed end adjacent said proximal end axially toward said distal end. - Embodiment 8. The quick connector of Embodiment 7, wherein said at least one locking finger is cantilevered from said fixed end.
- Embodiment 9. The quick connector of Embodiment 8, wherein said at least one locking finger includes a plurality of locking fingers spaced equidistantly from one another about a circumference of said annular retainer wall.
-
Embodiment 10. The quick connector ofEmbodiment 1, wherein said at least one locking feature is a circumferentially extending groove extending radially outwardly into said inner surface of said housing wall. - Embodiment 11. The quick connector of
Embodiment 10, wherein said at least one locking member is a circumferentially extending rib extending radially outwardly from said outer surface of said retainer wall. -
Embodiment 12. The quick connector of Embodiment 11, wherein said rib extends about an entirety of the circumference of said outer surface of said retainer wall.
Claims (15)
- A quick connector assembly, comprising:a tubular male insertion member having opposite ends with a lock feature located between said opposite ends;a housing having a tubular housing wall with an inner surface and an outer surface extending about a central longitudinal axis between open opposite ends with at least one locking feature extending into said inner surface of said housing wall, said inner surface bounding a through bore and having a shoulder extending radially inwardly from at least a portion thereof; anda retaining member having an annular retainer wall with inner and outer surfaces extending axially about said central longitudinal axis between open proximal and distal ends, said outer surface of said retaining member being sized for receipt in said through bore of said housing wall, said retainer wall having at least one locking member extending radially outwardly from said outer surface of said retainer wall for lock engagement with said at least one locking feature in said housing wall to prevent relative axial movement between said housing wall and said retaining member, said retainer wall having at least one locking finger extending radially inwardly from said inner surface of said retainer wall for locked engagement with said lock feature of said tubular male insertion member to prevent removal of said tubular male insertion member from said housing.
- The quick connector assembly of Claim 1, wherein said at least one locking feature extending into said inner surface of said housing wall is a through opening.
- The quick connector assembly of Claim 1, wherein said at least one locking feature extending into said inner surface of said housing wall includes a plurality of through openings.
- The quick connector assembly of Claim 1, wherein said at least one locking member is provided as a protrusion extending radially outwardly from said annular retainer wall.
- The quick connector assembly of Claim 4, wherein said inner surface of said annular retainer wall has a recessed channel extending axially from said proximal end toward said through opening, said recessed channel being configured to guide said protrusion into said through opening.
- The quick connector assembly of Claim 5, further including a ramped surface extending radially inwardly from said recessed channel toward said through opening.
- The quick connector assembly of Claim 1, wherein said at least one locking finger extends from a fixed end adjacent said proximal end axially toward said distal end.
- The quick connector assembly of Claim 7, wherein said at least one locking finger is cantilevered from said fixed end.
- The quick connector assembly of Claim 1, wherein said at least one locking finger includes a plurality of locking fingers spaced equidistantly from one another about a circumference of said annular retainer wall.
- The quick connector assembly of Claim 1, wherein said at least one locking feature is a circumferentially extending groove extending radially outwardly into said inner surface of said housing wall.
- The quick connector assembly of Claim 1, wherein said at least one locking member is a circumferentially extending rib extending radially outwardly from said outer surface of said retainer wall.
- The quick connector assembly of Claim 1, wherein said tubular male insertion member has a generally cylindrical outer surface and said lock feature extends radially outwardly from said generally cylindrical outer surface.
- The quick connector assembly of Claim 1, wherein said lock feature is an annular collar having a leading shoulder, a trailing shoulder and an outer periphery extending between said leading shoulder and said trailing shoulder.
- The quick connector assembly of Claim 1, wherein said tubular male insertion member has a generally cylindrical outer surface and said lock feature extends radially into said generally cylindrical outer surface.
- The quick connector assembly of Claim 1, wherein said lock feature is an annular recessed groove.
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US15/725,516 US10865922B2 (en) | 2017-10-05 | 2017-10-05 | Anti-tamper permanent quick connect coupling device |
Publications (3)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP3467367A1 true EP3467367A1 (en) | 2019-04-10 |
EP3467367B1 EP3467367B1 (en) | 2020-12-09 |
EP3467367B8 EP3467367B8 (en) | 2021-03-10 |
Family
ID=63762387
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP18198650.6A Active EP3467367B8 (en) | 2017-10-05 | 2018-10-04 | Anti-tamper permanent quick connect coupling device |
Country Status (7)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US10865922B2 (en) |
EP (1) | EP3467367B8 (en) |
KR (1) | KR102607211B1 (en) |
CN (1) | CN109630785A (en) |
CA (1) | CA3015836A1 (en) |
ES (1) | ES2845217T3 (en) |
MX (1) | MX2018011643A (en) |
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Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
EP3467367B1 (en) | 2020-12-09 |
KR20190039638A (en) | 2019-04-15 |
ES2845217T3 (en) | 2021-07-26 |
MX2018011643A (en) | 2019-06-17 |
EP3467367B8 (en) | 2021-03-10 |
CA3015836A1 (en) | 2019-04-05 |
KR102607211B1 (en) | 2023-11-27 |
CN109630785A (en) | 2019-04-16 |
US10865922B2 (en) | 2020-12-15 |
US20190107234A1 (en) | 2019-04-11 |
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